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Preferred Travel Group Launches Inaugural Climate Action Plan, Paving the Way To Industry Leadership

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The plan aims to halve the organization’s carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve Net Zero by no later than 2050, while leveraging their wider network of global stakeholders to scale solutions

NEW YORK, Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Preferred Travel Group is proud to announce the official launch of its Climate Action Plan, a strategic initiative aimed at addressing the climate crisis and driving meaningful change within the travel and tourism industry. This plan, created in partnership with the Travel Foundation, a prominent international sustainable tourism organization, underscores the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon emissions and engaging associates in climate action at every level of the organization.

Preferred Travel Group is proud to announce the official launch of its Climate Action Plan, a strategic initiative aimed at addressing the climate crisis and driving meaningful change within the travel and tourism industry.

Building on the Preferred Travel Group signing of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, the Climate Action Plan aims to reduce the company’s carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve Net Zero emissions by no later than 2050. The plan focuses on five key pathways: Measure, Decarbonize, Regenerate, Collaborate, and Finance, integrating climate action into the Preferred Travel Group corporate strategy and ensuring it becomes a core component of business decisions and a lens through which success is measured.

“As someone who has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of travel, I have always believed in its ability to connect people and cultures. With this privilege comes the responsibility to ensure that travel contributes positively to our planet,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO, Preferred Travel Group. “Our Climate Action Plan demonstrates that we are taking concrete steps toward building a more sustainable future. This is a commitment we are wholeheartedly invested in, and we invite our industry partners and guests to join us on this critical journey.”

The Path to Action

Preferred Travel Group developed its Climate Action Plan through a structured, iterative, and data-driven approach, collaborating with experts at the Travel Foundation and ecollective, a carbon consultancy based in the United Kingdom. This process was grounded in thorough data analysis and input from internal stakeholders, ensuring the plan is both comprehensive and feasible within the company’s operational scope. The Travel Foundation’s expertise in climate action in travel and tourism helped align the plan with global climate frameworks, reinforcing the commitment of Preferred Travel Group to industry best practices.

The Climate Action Plan Development Process

The plan addresses internal operations and focuses on creating a broader impact, emphasizing opportunities to foster scalable, industry-wide collaboration in the years to come. The following steps have been taken to guide the plan’s development and implementation:

Baseline Emissions Inventory and Situation Analysis – Preferred Travel Group began by conducting a baseline emissions inventory led by ecollective, quantifying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across Scopes 1 (direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company), 2 (indirect emissions from purchased electricity), and 3 (all other indirect emissions, such as business travel and employee commuting). Alongside this, the Travel Foundation conducted a situation analysis, gathering feedback from Preferred Travel Group associates to identify key opportunities for climate action within the company’s operations and across its broader stakeholder network.

Defining Objectives Aligned with Global Climate Frameworks – Using the baseline emissions inventory results and situation analysis, Preferred Travel Group established a set of objectives leading to 2030 that outline the strategic direction of the Climate Action Plan. These objectives were designed based on three guiding frameworks:

— Paris Agreement Alignment: The company’s climate goals support global efforts to limit temperature rise to well below 2°C, with an aspirational target of 1.5°C. This involves achieving a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 and Net Zero by 2050.

— Five Pathways of the Glasgow Declaration: Objectives were structured according to the five pathways of the Glasgow Declaration — Measure, Decarbonize, Regenerate, Collaborate, and Finance — to ensure a balanced, multi-faceted approach to climate action.

— Internal Operations and Sphere of Influence: Each objective was tailored to focus on key emissions sources and activities under the control of Preferred Travel Group, targeting areas where the company can scale positive impact through the company’s larger sphere of influence – including member hotels, suppliers, and wider tourism industry partners.

Identifying Actions to Achieve Each Objective – Preferred Travel Group identified specific actions for each objective to ensure practical implementation. Each action is tied to measurable outcomes that drive progress toward achieving broader climate goals.

Prioritization Framework – To ensure resources are effectively allocated, actions were prioritized based on cost, implementation timeframe, emissions reduction potential, ease of use, and associate engagement. A scoring system helped determine which actions would deliver the greatest impact.

The Path Forward: Operational Actions and Strategic Implementation

In 2025, Preferred Travel Group will focus on implementing its Climate Action Plan by establishing effective systems, refining policies, and engaging associates to create lasting impact. These efforts will provide a structured framework for reducing environmental impact and promoting a low-carbon future. Key priorities include enhancing emissions tracking and reporting systems for business travel and events, which contribute significantly to Scope 3 emissions, and refining travel and event policies to achieve emissions reduction across company operations. Associate engagement will be central to this effort, with training, workshops, and resources fostering a culture of climate action. Guided by the internal Climate Task Force and Climate Steering Committee, associates will be empowered to integrate more sustainable practices into their roles and help drive innovative climate initiatives across departments.

“As evidenced by the publication of this plan, Preferred Travel Group is prepared to integrate climate action at all levels of the organization,” said Nina Boys, Vice President of Sustainability, Preferred Travel Group. “The company is well positioned to reduce emissions in the pursuit of ambitious climate targets while also leveraging our larger sphere of influence to scale positive impact in the years ahead.”

By prioritizing the decarbonization of internal operations, Preferred Travel Group sets a strong foundation for expanding these efforts across its global network of stakeholders. This approach emphasizes the company’s commitment to leading the travel sector’s transition to a lower-carbon future, fostering innovation, accountability, and partnership. Beyond emissions reduction, the company is dedicated to empowering associates and stakeholders to adopt climate-conscious practices and contribute to collective industry transformation.

To view the full Climate Action Plan, including details on the emissions inventory methodology, full list of 2025 objectives and actions, and more, please visit PreferredTravelGroup.com/ClimateActionPlan.

Media Contact
Hannah Nelson, Preferred Travel Group, 1 3038857186, hnelson@preferredtravelgroup.com, www.preferredtravelgroup.com

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/preferred-travel-group-launches-inaugural-climate-action-plan-paving-the-way-to-industry-leadership-302323442.html

SOURCE Preferred Travel Group

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China’s Long March: The Journey Goes On

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MACAO, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report from Xinhua News Agency:

There is a chapter of history every Chinese child learns in school.

There is a poem that generations of Chinese people have learned by heart.

There is a song millions can sing from its very first notes.

In stories, in verses, in melodies, they all point to the same chapter of history: the Long March.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chinas-long-march-the-journey-goes-on-302915306.html

SOURCE Xinhua News Agency

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Target Makes it Easier for Guests to Discover Stylish Holiday Gifts They Can’t Wait to Give

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Target is offering more than 8,000 new gifts, with more than half exclusive to the retailerMost new holiday items at Target are $20 or less, including thousands $5 and underNew AI-powered shopping experiences, daily deals and early Black Friday savings simplify gifting

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) is putting gifting at the heart of the holidays, bringing guests more than 8,000 new stylish gifts they can’t wait to give. More than half of the new assortment is available only at Target, with thousands of gifts priced at $5 and under. New AI-powered shopping experiences, fresh ways to discover gifts and deals throughout the season will make it easier for guests to find something special for everyone on the list.

“This holiday season, guests will see and feel the changes we’ve been making across Target, bringing together the style, design and value they expect from us with an experience that makes shopping easier and more inspiring,” said Michael Fiddelke, chief executive officer, Target. “We know guests turn to Target for gifting, gathering and everything in between, and our team is ready to help busy families discover more joy in those moments throughout the season.”

Stylish gifts at an incredible value
As consumers continue to look for affordable ways to give gifts that feel special, Target is leaning into one of the season’s biggest trends: luxe-for-less gifting. This year’s assortment includes 100% cashmere (excluding functional trim) starting at $25, pajamas for all from $10, festive decor from $5, faux fur throws at $30, top toys from LEGO, Barbie and Nintendo, new and exclusive gifts from prestige, emerging and global beauty brands at Target Beauty Studio, nostalgic sweet treats and host gifts from Favorite Day and exclusive finds for sports and wellness fans, making it easy for guests to find gifts that feel elevated at every price point.

“Guests tell us they want to give gifts that are thoughtful and personal, while feeling good about what they’re spending,” said Cara Sylvester, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Target. “That’s why we’ve brought together the brands they love, exciting trends and unexpected finds they won’t see anywhere else — all at prices that make it easier to get that ‘I can’t wait to give this’ gift.”

More ways to discover the perfect gift
New this season, Ask Target, an AI-powered shopping assistant available in beta on Target.com and the Target app, helps guests find inspiration, narrow their choices and shop with confidence and ease. Additional AI-powered features and a digital holiday kids catalog offer more ways to discover gifts for everyone on the list.

Target’s new Academy of Giftology holiday marketing campaign, launching in November, will tackle familiar gifting dilemmas with playful inspiration to help guests gift it their all and find gifts they’ll be excited to give.

More ways to save, from the first gift to the last
Beginning Nov. 1, guests can shop a new Deal of the Day every day through Dec. 24, with a first-ever one-day preview of upcoming offers to help them plan ahead. Early Black Friday deals run Nov. 5–7, followed by new limited-time offers every weekend throughout the holiday season.

The joy of gift giving
Through Target’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, guests can give a gift that helps give back with the Gigglescape St. Jude bear, with a donation tied to each purchase while supplies last.

About Target
Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) brings together style, design and value to offer a distinct assortment and elevated shopping experience across more than 2,000 U.S. stores and online. Powered by more than 400,000 team members, Target serves millions of families each week and invests in the communities where they live and work to support growth and opportunity for all.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/target-makes-it-easier-for-guests-to-discover-stylish-holiday-gifts-they-cant-wait-to-give-302914635.html

SOURCE Target Corporation

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illumend CEO: Building a COI Tracker with AI Is Easy. Verifying Insurance Compliance Is Not.

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Kristen Nunery warns that homegrown Certificate of Insurance tracking tools can create a false sense of security when businesses mistake collecting insurance documents for verifying coverage and compliance

INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As general-purpose artificial intelligence (AI) makes it easier for businesses to build their own software, Kristen Nunery, founder and CEO of illumend, is warning construction and property management companies against a costly misconception: that building a Certificate of Insurance (COI) tracking system is the same as verifying that contractors and other third parties have the insurance coverage their contracts require.

In her new article, “You Can Build a COI Tracker with AI. That Doesn’t Mean You Should,” Nunery explains that general-purpose AI tools such as ChatGPT can help businesses create applications that collect certificates, track expiration dates, and automate reminders. But those capabilities address only part of the insurance compliance process. Determining whether coverage satisfies contractual requirements involves interpreting insurance documents, reviewing endorsements, identifying exclusions and resolving discrepancies that basic tracking software may overlook.

“AI has democratized the ability to build software. It hasn’t democratized the expertise to make the right insurance decision,” said Nunery, who has spent 16 years in insurance compliance. “If you don’t have a compliance process today, you’re not automating a process. You’re automating your best guess.”

Why a COI Tracker Is Not an Insurance Compliance Verification System

According to Nunery, the critical distinction is between tracking the existence and expiration of insurance documents and verifying whether the underlying coverage meets contractual obligations.

A homegrown COI tracker may confirm that a certificate is current, record policy limits, and flag missing documents. But a current certificate does not necessarily mean a contractor is adequately insured or compliant with an agreement’s terms.

For example, a subcontractor may submit a certificate showing sufficient general liability limits and additional insured status. Yet the underlying endorsement may be a CG 20 10 covering ongoing operations only, while the contract also requires completed-operations coverage under a CG 20 37 or equivalent endorsement. A basic tracker could mark the subcontractor as compliant despite the missing coverage.

“The tracker didn’t misread anything,” Nunery said. “It never had the contract requirement, the endorsement language, or the connection between the two.”

Other potential gaps include incorrectly named insured entities, missing endorsements, inadequate completed-operations coverage, and policy provisions that fail to satisfy contractual insurance requirements. Identifying these issues requires evaluating insurance evidence in context, not simply extracting data from a certificate.

Why Insurance Compliance Verification Requires Specialized Technology

Nunery argues that businesses seeking to move beyond basic COI tracking need technology designed specifically for insurance compliance verification, with insurance expertise embedded in how the system evaluates coverage.

Unlike homegrown tracking tools, specialized compliance platforms such as illumend compare insurance documents against established contractual requirements, examine supporting endorsements, identify coverage gaps, and explain findings that require attention.

This approach powers Lumie, illumend’s specialized AI-powered insurance compliance expert. Lumie reviews certificates and endorsements against established requirements, flags potential deficiencies and provides supporting evidence for its determinations, while allowing compliance professionals to review and resolve exceptions.

“AI should do more than flag a problem. It should show you what it found, which requirement it evaluated, and the evidence behind its assessment,” Nunery said. “Lumie applies insurance expertise at scale and creates a clear record of its findings, so teams can act on routine determinations efficiently and focus their attention on exceptions that need a closer look.”

Nunery’s perspective draws on her experience building myCOI, whose technology has reviewed more than 45 million insurance documents and identified more than 2 million coverage gaps before they became claims, according to company figures.

Build a COI Tracker or Buy a Compliance Platform? The Questions Businesses Should Ask

For organizations considering building their own COI software, Nunery recommends first determining whether they need a document-tracking application or a comprehensive insurance compliance verification system.

Basic tracking needs may be addressed with spreadsheets, conventional software, or applications built with general-purpose AI. But verifying compliance requires substantially more: translating contractual insurance requirements into rules, reviewing endorsements and policy evidence, identifying exceptions, documenting decisions, and maintaining an auditable compliance process.

Businesses must also consider who will keep insurance requirements current, validate the system’s determinations, investigate discrepancies, and maintain the records needed to support compliance decisions during claims or audits.

“Building the software happens once,” Nunery said. “Running a compliance system means keeping requirements, evidence, follow-ups, decisions and the audit trail current, every day it’s in use.”

To read Nunery’s full article, visit https://www.illumend.ai/evaluation-buying/build-vs-buy-coi-tracking-software-ai

About illumend
Founded in 2025, illumend™ is the AI-powered platform redefining how businesses manage third-party insurance compliance and risk. Backed by myCOI, the leader in third-party insurance compliance management with more than 16 years of expertise, illumend reimagines compliance by guiding every step of the process—from document review and expiration tracking to risk flagging, communication, and resolution—within one intuitive system. Built on myCOI’s institutional foundation—having processed more than 45 million documents, managed over 1.2 million agreements, cleared more than 750,000 third-party partners, and identified more than two million coverage gaps before claims—illumend brings this depth of compliance intelligence into an AI-native platform. At its core is Lumie, illumend’s conversational AI guide that reads complex insurance documents, flags issues in real time, and explains them in language anyone can act on. To learn more, visit https://www.illumend.ai.

Media contact:
Michael Tebo
Gabriel Marketing Group (for illumend)
Phone: 571-835-8775
Email: michaelt@gabrielmarketing.com

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SOURCE illumend

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